Motorcyclists in the United States represent only 3% of registered road users. However, in the last decade alone, there were 81,896 motorcycle injuries recorded annually in the country. According to the NHTSA, 15.72% of the 39,221 people killed in road accidents were involved in motorcycle crashes.
After an accident, people feel a range of different emotions. Most of the time, we tend to focus on the physical injuries and ignore the emotional impact. Because motorcyclists are more exposed than vehicle drivers, the trauma of a crash tends to leave baggage that takes longer to heal.
Nevertheless, all victims are entitled to compensation after a crash. By working with motorcycle accident attorneys at TopDog Law, you can get the best legal advice on how to file a claim and all options available as per the local laws. Keep reading to learn more about the emotional impact of a motorcycle accident.
Immediate Emotional Reactions
Right after a motorcycle accident, it is common to feel shocked and confused. You may not fully understand what happened and how badly you were hurt. Because of the adrenaline rushing through your body, it is easy to ignore minor injuries, which may end up severe.
Additionally, the experience of being thrown from a bike or seeing your motorcycle destroyed can be really upsetting. Emotions like fear and helplessness often take over, especially if the crash was severe and you are unable to move. These feelings become even worse when emergency services take time to arrive at the scene.
Long-term Emotional and Psychological Effects
In the weeks and months, many people continue to struggle emotionally. These include:
Anxiety and PTSD
Some victims develop anxiety mostly when thinking about getting back on a motorcycle or even being near traffic. At times, you may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This may manifest in the form of nightmares, flashbacks, or constantly feeling like something could go really wrong.
Depression
Depression is also really common. Life may all of a sudden feel very different. For example, injuries could limit your ability to work, socialize, or do the activities you once enjoyed. This change can bring feelings of:
- Sadness
- Frustration
- Hopelessness
People even report feeling as if they have lost a part of themselves.
Anger
It is natural to feel angry after a motorcycle accident. This rage could be directed at the person who caused the accident, the situation, or even at your body for not healing fast enough. These emotions can be very overwhelming and difficult to control.
Impact on Relationships
The emotional impact of a motorcycle accident affects more than just the victim. It can affect the relationships around them, too. You may become more irritable or withdrawn. This can put a strain on your family, friends, or intimate partners.
If you need help with everyday tasks, you may feel guilty or ashamed for being overly dependent on others. Some people even start isolating themselves because they don’t want to feel like a burden.
How to Deal With the Emotional Impact of a Motorcycle Accident
Emotional healing is a journey that doesn’t happen overnight. But you don’t have to go through it alone. Talking to a counselor can help you healthily process all these feelings. Also, joining support groups can be a good chance to interact with people who are in a similar situation.
It is also important to be open with your loved ones about what you are going through. Letting them in can help you feel more connected and supported.
Conclusion
The emotional impact of a motorcycle accident is very real and deserves as much attention as the physical injuries. If you or someone you love is struggling after a crash, don’t be afraid to ask for help to ensure you recover properly.
